The Nittany Track and Field, a non-profit running club for boys and girls ages 8-18, was organized in the State College area in Spring 2005. The Club is affiliated with the Mid-Atlantic USATF (#08-0147) and represents a unique running program for local youth. The Club's main objective is to foster a positive, fun, and supportive atmosphere for training and athletic growth. The Club coaches offer instruction that is suited to all levels of ability and experience. While training and competition is always encouraged, promoting an active lifestyle and involvement in sports stands as the main priority.

While having a great time outdoors, young athletes step by step learn the basics of a running routine: warm-up/cool-down, stretching, plyometrics, pacing. Running activities include both easy group runs and specific workouts aimed at development of running form, endurance, strength, and speed.

The Club has two sessions throughout the year: Summer track and field (May-July) and Fall cross country (September-December). Within every session, athletes go through a well-structured training routine and have an opportunity to compete in their age divisions at local (NVRC-CRPR) and USATF sanctioned meets. There is no obligation to come to every practice, and participation in races is voluntary. Each practice takes ~1.5 hours. Two or three coaches or parent volunteers are present at every practice to manage kids at different levels. During the track season, athletes can choose to join different training groups based on their specialization or preferences, e.g. distance running, sprint, hurdles, etc.

Within the Club practice, the kids are not separated into age categories, which allows good social interaction and exchanging experience within the group. We found it particularly useful when older kids set an example for younger kids (and vice versa). Although workout assignments are based on individual abilities and age, many parts of the training are done together.

Parents are welcome to run with us and to participate in any capacity.

For more information contact John Schmidt jps28@verizon.net, 814-235-7698, or Mark Fedkin ntfxc@verizon.net.